Category: Stainless Steel

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Advantages of using stainless steel for metal fabrication

A topweld welder performing stainless steel pipeline system fabrication

Introduction

Stainless steel is one of the most widely chosen materials for metal fabrication because it combines performance, longevity and aesthetic appeal. For fabricators and end users alike, the advantages of using stainless steel for metal fabrication go beyond a single benefit — they span durability, corrosion resistance, hygienic properties, ease of finishing and strong lifecycle value. This article explains those advantages in detail and helps clients understand when stainless steel is the right choice for their project.

1. Strength and long-term durability

Stainless steel offers excellent mechanical strength for its weight, giving fabricated parts high load capacity and resistance to wear. In practical terms this means frames, supports, tanks and structural components typically withstand heavy use and mechanical stress with minimal deformation. For clients, that translates to fewer replacements and lower lifecycle disruption — a critical consideration for industrial installations where downtime is costly.

2.Outstanding corrosion resistance

A defining feature of stainless steel is its natural ability to resist corrosion. A thin, self-repairing oxide layer forms on the metal surface, protecting the underlying material from rust and environmental attack. This passive layer explains why stainless steel performs reliably in wet, coastal or chemically aggressive environments. Choosing stainless steel reduces the need for frequent protective coatings and delivers longer service life in exposed applications.

3. Hygienic properties for food, pharma and healthcare

Stainless steel’s smooth, non-porous surface makes it inherently hygienic and easy to clean — ideal for food processing, beverage, pharmaceutical and medical equipment. It does not harbour bacteria in the way some porous materials can, and it withstands repeated wash-downs, sanitisation and chemical cleaners without degrading. For businesses with strict hygiene requirements, stainless steel simplifies compliance and helps maintain product safety.

4. Low maintenance and cost-effectiveness over time

While stainless steel may have a higher initial material cost compared with some alternatives, its low maintenance requirements quickly offset that difference. The minimal need for painting, re-coating or complex corrosion control reduces ongoing operating expenses. When total cost of ownership is calculated — factoring maintenance, replacement cycles and downtime — stainless steel often represents a more economical long-term solution.

5. Aesthetic versatility and finish options

Stainless steel is available in a wide range of surface finishes, from mirror polish to brushed or textured looks, allowing fabricated products to meet both functional and aesthetic briefs. The material ages gracefully and retains a professional appearance with basic care. This versatility makes it popular for architectural features, commercial fit-outs, visible plantroom equipment and consumer-facing products.

6. Fabrication flexibility — form, join and machine with confidence

Modern fabrication shops can cut, press, bend, machine and weld stainless steel reliably. It is adaptable to complex geometries and precise tolerances, enabling one-off bespoke builds as well as repeatable production runs. Weldability and compatibility with standard fabrication techniques let fabricators create strong, accurate assemblies while controlling distortion and ensuring dimensional integrity.

7. Thermal and chemical resistance where required

Stainless steel tolerates a wide temperature range and resists many chemicals, making it suitable for process plant, boilers, heat exchangers and specialised industrial equipment. Its stability under heat and resistance to chemical attack expand the range of working environments where stainless steel can be confidently specified.

8. Sustainability and recyclability

Stainless steel is highly recyclable — recovered stainless scrap can be remelted and reused without significant loss of properties. This recyclability, combined with longevity, reduces the environmental footprint of fabricated items. For businesses pursuing sustainability goals, stainless steel supports circular economy credentials and can contribute positively to procurement and reporting objectives.

8. Long-term value and return on investment (ROI)

Because stainless steel products last longer, require less upkeep and retain value over time, they often deliver better ROI than cheaper alternatives. For critical assets — such as processing equipment, structural elements or public-facing installations — investing in stainless steel reduces lifecycle risk and offers predictable performance that supports operational planning.

9. Typical applications and industries

Stainless steel is used across many sectors because of its broad advantage set. Common applications include food and beverage processing equipment, dairy and abattoir fittings, chemical and water treatment plant, architectural and balustrade work, tanks and vessels, and bespoke commercial joinery. If your project requires hygiene, durability or exposure resistance, stainless steel is usually a strong candidate.

Choosing stainless steel — what to consider

When specifying stainless steel for fabrication, consider the environment (corrosive, coastal, chemical exposure), required surface finish, structural loads, welding and forming needs, and lifecycle expectations. Work with your fabricator to define finish requirements, tolerances and maintenance regimes so the final product meets operational and aesthetic goals without over-specifying materials or processes.

Conclusion

The advantages of using stainless steel for metal fabrication are compelling: durable performance, excellent corrosion resistance, hygienic surfaces, attractive finishes, fabrication flexibility and strong sustainability credentials. While initial costs may be higher than some alternatives, the material’s lifecycle benefits and reduced maintenance burden make it a smart investment for many industrial and commercial projects. For advice on whether stainless steel is right for your next fabrication project, contact Topweld General Engineering — we’ll help you select the optimal solution and deliver it to exacting quality and service standards.

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Reasons Why Stainless Steel Sheet Metal Fabrication is Ideal for the Food Industry

Stainless Steel Chute

Stainless steel sheet metal is widely used by fabricators around the world to create parts and components for various industries including construction, aerospace, automotive, medical, and marine. However, one sector that relies particularly heavily on stainless steel fabrication is the food and beverage industry.

In fact, over 30% of stainless steel production is dedicated to manufacturing equipment and processing systems for food and beverage applications.

Stainless steel refers to a group of steels known primarily for their resistance to corrosion. This resistance comes from the addition of at least 10.5% chromium to the alloy, which forms a protective oxide layer on the steel’s surface—making it up to 200 times more resistant to corrosion compared to steel without chromium.

But corrosion resistance isn’t the only reason stainless steel is a preferred choice for food-related equipment. Let’s explore five key benefits of using stainless steel sheet metal fabrication in the food industry:

1. Food-Grade Safety

The main reason stainless steel is favoured in the food sector is its natural corrosion resistance. The chromium oxide layer on its surface ensures it is nonporous and hygienic. Food-grade stainless steel typically contains high levels of chromium (16–18%) and nickel (8–10%), enhancing its biocompatibility and making it safe for contact with a variety of food and drink products. Austenitic grades 304 and 316 are especially common in food processing due to their superior chromium content.

2. Excellent Mechanical Properties

Stainless steel offers numerous mechanical advantages suitable for food industry applications. It is strong and durable, withstands both high and low temperatures, and is easy to shape and fabricate. Additionally, it requires minimal maintenance, is long-lasting, and presents a clean, attractive finish—all of which make it highly suitable for fabricating food processing equipment.

3. Preferred Material for Food Processing Equipment

Because of its hygienic qualities, stainless steel is the top choice for manufacturing food and beverage processing machinery. In Australia, this material aligns with key sanitary design standards such as the AS 1528 series for hygienic tube and fittings, which ensure cleanability, corrosion resistance, and mechanical integrity in food-grade systems. These standards support compliance with the Food Standards Code (FSANZ Chapter 3.2.3), which requires equipment to be constructed of materials that are non-toxic, smooth, and easy to clean, helping to prevent contamination and promote food safety.

4. Versatile Formability and Longevity

Stainless steel’s excellent formability and weldability allow fabricators to produce complex shapes and custom designs required by the food industry. Combined with its corrosion resistance and hygienic surfaces, stainless steel equipment can be sterilised repeatedly without losing its integrity, making it a highly reliable and durable choice.

5. Easy to Clean Surfaces

The smooth, nonporous surface of stainless steel makes it perfect for maintaining hygiene in food production. It is widely used for industrial food processing tanks, refrigeration units, sinks, countertops, and kitchenware such as cookware and cutlery. Since stainless steel doesn’t absorb flavours or germs, it can be cleaned effectively to remain safe for food contact.

To find out more about how stainless steel sheet metal fabrication can benefit your industry or about Topweld capabilities, get in touch with us today!

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Understanding Stainless Steel Welding Without Purging

structural-steel-fabrication

Stainless steel welding is a critical process in various industries, including food processing, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing, due to its corrosion resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. However, welding stainless steel presents unique challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining the metal’s integrity and preventing oxidation. One of the conventional methods to protect the weld area from oxidation is purging with an inert gas, such as argon. But what happens when purging isn’t an option? Can you still achieve a quality weld on stainless steel without purging? The answer is yes, and in this blog, we’ll explore the methods and considerations for welding stainless steel without purging.

Why Purging is Important

Before diving into alternative techniques, it’s essential to understand why purging is commonly used. Purging involves displacing the air in the weld area with an inert gas, preventing oxygen and nitrogen from reacting with the molten metal. This reaction can cause discoloration, weakened welds, and corrosion susceptibility. In stainless steel welding, maintaining a clean and controlled environment is crucial to preserving the metal’s properties and ensuring a strong, durable weld.

stainless pipe

Welding Without Purging: Techniques and Considerations

When purging isn’t feasible, several techniques can be employed to minimize the risks associated with welding stainless steel:

  1. Use of Backing Tape or Backing Bars:
    • Backing tapes are specialized materials applied to the backside of the weld to protect it from oxidation. These tapes typically consist of a layer of adhesive and a metallic backing strip, providing a barrier against atmospheric gases. Backing bars, often made of copper, can also be used to support the weld and prevent oxygen exposure.
  2. Controlled Heat Input:
    • Managing heat input is crucial when welding without purging. Excessive heat can exacerbate oxidation, so controlling the welding parameters (such as voltage, current, and travel speed) is vital. Lowering the heat input can reduce the likelihood of discoloration and other oxidation-related issues.
  3. Use of Flux-Cored Wire or Electrodes:
    • Flux-cored wires or electrodes designed for stainless steel can provide additional protection against oxidation. The flux in these materials creates a shielding gas as it burns, helping to protect the weld pool from atmospheric contamination.
  4. TIG (GTAW) Welding with Proper Filler Material:
    • When using the Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding process, selecting the right filler material is essential. High-quality filler rods designed for stainless steel can help reduce oxidation risks, even without purging. Additionally, using a larger diameter electrode can help achieve a more stable arc and better weld quality.
  5. Post-Weld Cleaning and Passivation:
    • After welding, it’s essential to clean the weld area thoroughly to remove any oxides that may have formed. Passivation, a chemical treatment that restores the stainless steel’s corrosion resistance, is also recommended. This process helps remove any free iron from the surface, ensuring the weld area remains protected against corrosion.

Applications Where Purge-Free Welding is Necessary

There are scenarios where purging might not be possible or practical. Some examples include:

  • Field Repairs: In situations where the backside of the weld is inaccessible, such as in pipes or tanks, purging might not be an option.
  • Cost Considerations: Purging can add to the cost of a welding project, particularly in large-scale operations. Eliminating the need for purging can reduce expenses while still delivering a quality weld.
  • Tight Spaces: In some cases, the workspace may be too confined to set up a proper purge system, making alternative methods necessary.

Conclusion: Achieving Quality Welding Without Purging

Welding stainless steel without purging is a challenge, but it’s entirely achievable with the right techniques and materials. By understanding the risks and applying the appropriate methods, welders can produce strong, clean welds that maintain the integrity and corrosion resistance of stainless steel. Whether you’re dealing with field repairs, tight spaces, or budget constraints, the ability to weld without purging opens up new possibilities for stainless steel fabrication.

In summary, while purging is a common practice in stainless steel welding, it’s not always necessary. With careful planning, attention to detail, and the use of specialized tools and materials, you can achieve excellent results without the need for purging, ensuring your projects are completed to the highest standards.

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A Definite Guide To Stainless Steel Fabrication

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Stainless steel fabrication is not just cutting, bending, and assembling metal sheets. It is a process of transforming raw materials into finished components, requiring incredible skill and precision. From medical to industrial equipment, from sculptures to signs, stainless steel fabrication creates complex parts for use in modern life. It requires planning and collaboration between the fabricator and the customer to get the desired result that meets their needs.

Why Is It Important To Hire Great Stainless Steel Fabricators?

Hiring a great stainless steel fabricator in Wodonga, VIC is essential for creating something durable and high-quality. False promises and materials can be detrimental to the outcome, so getting someone with extensive experience and knowledge in stainless steel fabrication is important. With their expertise, you will be provided with superior craftsmanship, high-grade materials, and impeccable execution—all at a fair price—ensuring that your project is completed properly the first time. Remember that an effective stainless steel fabricator provides high-quality steel fabrication services for domestic, industrial, and commercial purposes. It also values long-lasting client relationships and seeks to achieve them by providing an excellent final product, friendly service, and efficient turnarounds. Regarding materials, All products should be made from top-quality materials and go through a strict quality-control process before they are delivered to you.

What other metals are used in welding or metal fabrication? Find out here: What Metals Are Used For Welding?

What Are The Qualities Of An Ideal Metal Fabricator?

Top-notch Metal Durability

Good stainless steel fabricators in Victoria know how to make the most of the metal used based on your needs or the specific purpose it is intended for. Different kinds of stainless steel are available based on your needs or specific purposes. As stainless steel reacts differently to heat, only an expert metal fabricator can use it while making the component strong and durable at the same time.

Stylish and Neat Fabricated Metals

It is not surprising that stainless steel is one of the metals that stands out from the rest. Examples are stainless steel handrails or stainless steel railings, industrial fans, and cone handrails. It is possible to create a very neat and beautiful design when these metals are fabricated well. The metals should be shiny and appealing to the eye. It is important to ensure the outcome is elegant and appealing, as well as having good measurements. If the company is skilled in sheet metal fabrication, this is also a great indicator of its understanding of the industry.

Expert Information About Metals

Effective stainless steel fabrication requires knowledge of a wide variety of metals and alloys and the ability to locate hard-to-find materials. To get the job done right, metal fabricators should strive to be great scavengers when tracking down the right metal for a project. From sourcing rarer grades of aluminum to sniffing out stainless steel for special projects, successful metal fabricators can be just as adept at finding specific materials as manipulating them.

Great Comprehension

Knowing how to work with various metals and materials, having a high level of math proficiency, and understanding blueprints and designs are just a few of the qualities that are required. Additionally, one important aspect that all successful metal fabricators must have is the confidence to work with stainless steel, one of the most commonly used metals in modern fabrication projects. Knowledge of welding techniques, machine operations, material properties, etc., and applying that knowledge skillfully can lead a person toward becoming a great metal fabricator.

Types of Metal Fabrication That is Great For Industrial and Commercial Use

When it comes to metal fabrication, many options are available for commercial and industrial use. Metal fabricators have the skills and tools to create whatever you need, from intricate designs to simple structures. But before you start your project, it’s important to understand the different types of metal fabrication and what makes an effective metal fabricator. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of metal fabrication. Look at the different types of metal fabrication to find the most effective metal fabricator for your project.

Metal Fabrication and Welding

Metal fabrication and welding are essential parts of many commercial projects. The process uses various processes, such as welding, cutting, and bending metal materials like stainless steel, to create the desired shape and size. It can range from creating a metal railing and stainless steel handrails for a business to manufacturing intricate machinery parts for industrial use. Metal fabrication is used for all purposes in the commercial sector, whether a structural metal frame or a custom-made stainless steel fixture for your storefront.

Stainless Steel Fabrication

Stainless steel fabrication is a type of metal fabrication that involves creating components out of stainless steel. It’s an industry for those skilled in putting together pieces to make customized products, from large-scale production runs to smaller one-off items built to exacting specifications. Using the strength and durability inherent in stainless steel, skilled fabricators create everything from car parts and medical devices to kitchen sinks and sculptures.

Aluminum Fabrication

Aluminum fabrication is a type of metal fabrication that involves the creation of structures out of aluminum alloy. This process can involve manufacturing components, welding, cutting, and forming—all to fabricate a usable structure made from aluminum. Aluminum is an inexpensive and lightweight metal that can be used in various forms, such as sheet metal, welding rods, or castings. It is also relatively easy to work with compared to other metals like steel, making it a great choice for many fabrication projects.

Structural Fabrication

Structural fabrication is a type of metal fabrication where raw materials like steel and aluminum are cut, bent, welded, and assembled into structural supports for buildings or structures. It’s an essential part of the construction industry and involves highly skilled tradespeople to ensure the structure is safe and secure. Structural fabrication can create beams, support columns, rafters, and many other components that make up a structure. The process requires welding technology and engineering expertise to ensure that each element has been correctly manufactured according to the design specifications.

Custom Stainless Steel Fabrication

It’s one of the most versatile types of custom steel fabrication available, perfect for creating anything from heavy machinery and pipes to handcrafted jewelry and sculptures. Plus, with stainless steel being corrosion-resistant and the ability to create complex designs, this custom fabrication offers all sorts of creative possibilities when tackling any project, including architectural design and other services that require metal fabrication.

Why Choose Topweld Metal Fabrication Services for Your Stainless Steel Products?

Effective

We understand that your time and energy are valuable. You have important tasks to take care of and need to get them done quickly. But don’t worry, we’ll do whatever it takes to complete the project efficiently with the help of our industry experience and extensive range without missing any crucial steps in the process. 

Great Results

TopWeld is a company that has succeeded in the past and continues to make a name for itself in the metal fabrication industry. They provide their clients with high-quality products made from high-quality materials, thanks to our team of experienced metal fabricators. So if you’re looking for superior service and reliable products, check out TopWeld.

Quality Service for You

At TopWeld, we understand the importance of using the right type of stainless steel for metal fabrication. With our strong commitment to professional quality control and health and safety requirements, our experts use only nicely fabricated stainless steel that excels in all possible cases. Using any mediocre or incorrect stainless steel could lead to dangerous structural gaps and cracks, posing a serious safety threat. To prevent such mishaps in metal cutting, we have taken preventive measures and provided quality service with enhanced supply equipment.

The Best Equipment

TopWeld supplies some of the best quality machines for making stainless steel metal fabrication that you can work with. We have strong welding expertise as well. We also use top-of-the-line equipment, along with the best-suited metal.

We also have all of the tools you’ll need to finish your project with high fabrication capabilities. We can accommodate you, whether it’s a simple repair or a full stainless steel construction build. We can source your materials and even do a full design for you. We offer more than just welding and cutting services. 

Great Prices Offered

At our company, we understand that not all businesses can afford high prices for the goods they need. That’s why we are proud to offer much more competitive pricing than other companies in the market—without compromising on the quality of stainless products. We take great pride in providing our clients with deals and packages that meet their budgets and requirements, so they can continue to run their businesses as smoothly as possible.

Read more here: Why TopWeld Is The Best Metal Fabricator For You

FAQ:

What is the importance of fabrication for your business project?

One of the most important aspects of fabrication is using the right materials for the project. From aluminum and mild steel to stainless steel and titanium, all of these metals have different qualities that lend themselves to different tasks.

What is the use of metal fabrication?

Metal fabrication is the process of cutting, bending, welding, and assembling different types of metal materials to create a structure or component. It’s used by engineers and craftsmen across the world to shape raw metal into structures for various purposes, from structures like bridges to custom furniture and even sculptures. From aluminum to steel and everything in between, the possibilities are endless for metal fabrication; you can use whatever type of material best fits your needs.

What is the importance of stainless steel?

Stainless steel is used in all products, from furniture and household appliances to surgical equipment and automobiles. Its versatility makes it the perfect choice for many instances where metal fabrication is needed.

What is the fabrication of stainless steel?

Stainless steel is a type of metal fabrication that involves cutting, forming, and assembly processes to create metal components. It is a strong and durable material that can be manipulated into various shapes for different uses. Fabrication of stainless steel requires special tools, techniques, and expertise to create the highest quality product.

What is steel fabrication used for?

Steel fabrication is often employed in construction and engineering work, from creating structural supports to constructing entire buildings and bridges. Industrial projects such as tanks and shipping containers also require steel fabrication. The process typically includes forming, welding, machining, and assembly operations.

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Stainless Steel Fabrication Experts In Blacktown

blacktown welding

Stainless Steel Fabrication And Metalworking Service In Blacktown, New South Wales

Stainless steel fabrication in Blacktown is the process of cutting, bending, and shaping stainless steel to create a finished product. This can include everything from small individual parts to large structures and installations.

A cutting (which can be done with a variety of tools, such as saws, lasers, and water jets to achieve precise cuts and shapes), bending (which is used to create curved or angled shapes in the steel), welding (which is used to join pieces of stainless steel together, and several different welding techniques can be used depending on the specific needs of the project), and forming (which involves applying pressure to the stainless steel to shape it into the desired shape) are just a few of the many different techniques used in stainless steel fabrication.

If you are in Blacktown, New South Wales, and require custom stainless steel fabrication or metalworking services, you can try contacting some of the local metal fabrication companies to see if they offer these services, but you don’t need to do any of that because all of those stated above and more are covered by the best metal fabrication service in all of New South Wales. It would be helpful to have a clear idea of what needs to be done, as well as any specifications or requirements for the project, to get accurate quotes and estimates.

How can you tell if a stainless steel company in Blacktown is a good one?

There are a few key factors to consider when hiring stainless steel manufacturers in Blacktown, New South Wales:

 Experience 

Look for a company with a track record of successful projects and satisfied customers.

Quality of work

 It’s important to choose a company that produces high-quality work and pays attention to detail. Ask to see samples of their previous work or speak with their past clients to get a sense of their level of craftsmanship.

Responsiveness and communication

Look for a company with a track record of successful projects and satisfied customers.

 Flexibility

Choose a company that is willing to work with you to find a solution that meets your needs and budget.

 Reputation

Look for a company with a good reputation in the community and industry. You can check online reviews and ask for referrals from industry professionals or other business owners.

Why Choose TopWeld For Your Custom Stainless Fabrication in Blacktown, NSW?

With Highly Qualified And Experienced Fabrication Experts

With a professional team of steel fabricators with years of extensive experience in both school and industry, you know you are in good hands when it comes to producing quality products and other custom stainless steel work.

Customized Services As Per Client Needs And Unique Designs

With us taking in every individual specification that our clients have given us through their feedback, we are sure to make high-quality products that are fit for any use, like a stainless steel sink, and can be your stainless steel solution.

Pricing tailored to each client’s budget for commercial and residential clients

With our competitive and tailored prices, we know that you will not find any other stainless steel fabrication in Blacktown that can produce as high-quality stainless steel products and services as we do. None of them can make high-grade steel fabrication for commercial purposes, like for your commercial kitchens.

Excellence In Fabrication With More Than 10 Years of Experience

With our stringent criteria for excellence in all of our works and stainless steel fabrication products, we are confident that you will enjoy whatever customized product you choose.

Impeccable Reputation In The Field Of Welding And Fabrication

With our expert stainless steel manufacturers building up an amazing reputation among the people of Blacktown due to the amazing job that they give out to the community, it is hard to find better fabricators in Blacktown than them or a better sheet metal fabrication service than us.

Services offered

Locations We Served Across Australia

New South Wales

Queensland

Victoria

 

We served in different locations across Australia by offering professional and friendly fabrication and welding services. TopWeld team have invested heavily in acquiring all of the industrial processes required by our clients to ensure that every welding projects are delivered on time and with expert care. No project is too big or too small. We are your local welding company specializing in the welding and fabrication of all metals including aluminum, stainless steel, mild steel, cast iron, copper, titanium, magnesium and brass.

LOOKING FOR A QUALITY AND AFFORDABLE PROJECT?

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 Questions And Answers

How is stainless steel better than aluminum?

Although aluminum also does not rust, stainless steel has some added protection from rust in the form of chromium, which gives it a protective film and better rust resistance. Just ask any steel fabricator for any steel products, and they’ll agree that stainless steel is better.

What Is The Distinction Between Weld And Fabrication?

Welding is the technique that involves fusing two metals while fabricating is all about cutting, shearing, or punching a sheet of metal as part of a project.

How Can You Tell If Stainless Steel Is Genuine?

Test it by applying a magnet to your stainless steel cookware; if it sticks, it’s real; if it doesn’t stick, it’s not.

Is Plasma Cutting Better?

Plasma cutting is better when it comes to more precise and elegant pieces.

How do you know if you’ve chosen the right welding service for the job?

The best indicator that you have chosen the best company for the job is that the final product is better than you could ever anticipate and that the service provider has taken your feedback about their work to better make your piece. So if you want the best company on the job then you can contact us here at TopWeld General Engineering by calling us at +61 401 185 953 or by emailing us at info@topweld.com.au.